Album insights
Henry Vieuxtemps, born in Verviers near Liège in 1820, was acclaimed as Europe's finest violinist after Paganini's passing. His musical journey began at the age of six under the tutelage of his father and later the esteemed teacher Lecloux-Dejonc. Vieuxtemps captivated Charles de Bériot and moved to Brussels to study with him. His talent shone in Paris and gained praise from Robert Schumann in Leipzig. Following tours in Germany and Austria, he debuted in London in 1834, crossing paths with Paganini.
Vieuxtemps, known for his technical prowess, honed his skills gradually as he traversed through Vienna, studying composition with Sechter and Reicha. He composed his first violin concerto during this time. In St. Petersburg, as court violinist, he left an indelible mark on Russian violin playing. Eduard Hanslick hailed him and Joachim as the world's foremost violinists in 1854. A stroke prematurely halted his virtuoso career, forcing him to shift focus to teaching after tours with Thalberg. He later retired to Algeria with his family.
Vieuxtemps's compositions, predominantly featuring the violin, included two cello concertos and significant viola works. His distinctive style eschewed pure virtuosity, blending a classical dimension into his concertos and chamber music. His Violin Concerto No. 4 in D Minor stood out for him. The structure reflected a symphonic essence with a refined orchestration. Notable for his meticulous orchestral introduction, Vieuxtemps explored poignant themes with virtuosic passages.
The Violin Concerto No. 5 in A Minor, or the "Gétry Concerto," was composed to test advanced students at the Brussels Conservatory. Vieuxtemps added a slow movement to balance the structure, integrating diverse expressions seamlessly. The finale culminated in a triumphant cascade of bravura. His Fantasia appassionata showcased his genius in a one-movement form, harmonizing contrasting elements effectively, showcasing the soloist's prowess.
Vieuxtemps's music resonates with expressive depth, engaging narratives, and dazzling technical prowess, shaping his legacy as a central figure in 19th-century violin repertoire.
Calum MacDonald © 2010
German: Viola Scheffel